Fine for ‘bogus dentist’

on 19 February 2013

The General Dental Council (GDC) has successfully prosecuted a woman for the illegal practice of dentiistry.

Joana Antunes Catre Dos Santos, was working as a dentist at the Advanced Dental Clinic in Stoke-on-Trent and appeared at Newcastle-under-Lyme Magistrates’ Court where she pleaded guilty to four offences of unlawfully practising dentistry whilst not registered..

She has never been registered with the GDC and was fined £600 for each of the four offences and ordered to pay £1,500 towards the GDC’s costs.

In addition, she must pay a victim surcharge of £120 and a total of £248 in victim compensation.

Chief executive of the GDC, Evlynne Gilvarry said: 'People who practise dentistry unlawfully pose a significant risk to the patients they treat. The GDC is committed to ensuring public safety and I hope this prosecution sends a clear message to others who may be tempted to practise without being registered with the GDC.'